On the morning of Saturday, 23 November, the people of St Mary’s Parish in Halifax gathered to witness a significant moment in the life of the Diocese: the Ordination to the Permanent Diaconate of Paul Coates.
Despite the heavy snowfall that blanketed the area that morning, parishioners and friends braved the wintry conditions to attend this joyous occasion.
The ordination ceremony was presided over by Bishop Marcus, who delivered a homily that emphasised the importance of service, humility, and the call to live out the Gospel in everyday life. Fr Joshua Hilton, the Parish Priest, presented Paul to the Bishop and testified that he had been found worthy to undertake this important ministry.
The atmosphere in the church was filled with warmth and celebration, as the community came together to support Dcn Paul in his new role. Family and friends of the ordinand travelled from near and far, demonstrating the strong bonds of faith and fellowship that unite us.
St Mary’s in Halifax now has TWO deacons: Dcn Paul Coates & Dcn John Walsh
Following the Mass, a celebratory buffet was held at the Catholic Club, where attendees enjoyed good food and fellowship. This gathering allowed everyone to share in the joy of Paul’s ordination, offering congratulations and blessings as he embarks on this new chapter in his life.
Fr Joshua said: ‘As Paul assumes his responsibilities as a Deacon, we ask the community to keep him in their prayers. May he continue to grow in faith and service, reflecting Christ’s love in all that he does. Congratulations, Deacon Paul, on your ordination! We look forward to witnessing your ministry in our diocese and the many ways you will serve our community.’
Just three days later on 26 November, Dcn Paul led the Prayers of Intercession and was welcomed by many of his brother Deacons at the Mass of Thanksgiving for the Permanent Diaconate celebrated by Bishop Marcus at Leeds Cathedral: an historic location for Deacons across the Church nationally, as it was where the first ordinations in England and Wales took place in May 1971.
All the photographs taken by Patrick Sice, both at Dcn Paul’s Ordination in Halifax and also at the Thanksgiving Mass for the Permanent Diaconate at Leeds Cathedral are available via his Diocese of Leeds blog.
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